The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

The Dream Catchers: PRESTORIA Series Book 1 by J.U. Menon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Dream Catchers is the first book in J. U. Menon’s Prestoria series. This children’s series is set partially in the real world and partially in the world of dreams, and draws on the Indian folklore that influences the protagonist’s imagination, and therefore the dreams she experiences.
I would have loved this book as a kid, when I tried to plan to have adventures with friends when we were both dreaming. It’s such a cool premise, and Menon develops it brilliantly with the Challenge and the mysteries that surround it. Such a captivating world!
Radhika is a great protagonist. She’s very compassionate and concerned for others, making her a good role model. The challenges she faces in her real life, including grief and moving to a new area and school, are as much a part of the story as the fantastical challenges she faces in Prestoria. I particularly like how her relationships with family are explored, such as her younger brother Aarav who is dealing with his grief in a very different way to his sister.
This book would be great for KS2-3 readers who are confident with longer chapter books. If a child gets anxious about sleeping or dreams, or are experiencing grief, it would be worth an adult reading it before or with them and using it as a discussion prompt.
This book gets a full five stars from me! A superb read!

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